Say Goodbye to Maskne: Solutions for Face Mask Skin Irritation

Ever since the outbreak of coronavirus, life has taken a pretty much ‘U’ turn. Malls are going barren and local stores are breathing again. Stepping out has become a task and staying in takes a toll. Sanitation is the saviour and masks, a pestering compulsion. This has resulted in a new issue – ‘face mask skin irritation’. 

The internet is swarming with pictures of health care providers. Front-line warriors are bruised with marks from the masks. They spend 8-9 hours a day or even more wearing the mask.  

Commoners put it when they step out. But police, bankers, frontline fighters, office goers, shop keepers have to wear it for long straining hours. Every day I get 3-4 patients complaining of face mask skin irritation.

Face masks have become an integral part of our lives. And it is here to stay! Maybe, for the next few months, years, or decade. So, the only way is to learn how to endure this new normal!

Also Read: Guduchi for Coronavirus

Masks and Bizarre things

Wearing a non-medical mask is a compulsion. And more people are looking for face covers and many are making their own. From tying up a leaf around the mouth to wearing a plastic cover, strange things are breaking the internet.

Indians are known for their bizarre ‘jugaad’. And old habits die hard, even when it’s a matter of life and death. Just take a stroll and be amazed how casually the commoners are hanging their masks.

The most common sight is a loose handkerchief that hangs by the neck than covering the mouth and nose. Some cover using a saree and some wear a loose scarf. A few go for the loose surgical masks and a very few opt for the elite N 95 or masks of that stature.

But what’s more shocking is their way around the masks. They can hardly keep their hands off the masks. Some take it off while speaking and some keep pulling and adjusting the thing. That’s as good as not wearing the mask!

Which mask should you pick?

WHO recommends that N95 for healthcare providers and people who are caring for a COVID patient. First reason, of course, it’s costly. Secondly, there is no need for an N95 for all. Thirdly, everyone going for an N95 will create a scarcity.

So, what should the commoners wear?

Going for a surgical mask or a cloth mask made of cotton is good enough for the commoners.  But that does not mean the pallu of your saree, a handkerchief or loose scarves hanging by the neck can do the task. 

Unmasking the rules 

Face masks are a powerful means in this fight against Coronavirus. But there are few rules you need to follow to make it work. Just hanging around a loose cloth is no good!

1. Face masks need to fit snugly on the wearer’s face.
2. There must be no spaces between the mask and the nose.
3. Do not touch, adjust or remove the masks.
4. Make sure your face and mask are clean.

No doubt, the masks can keep the airborne particles away, but the tight clasp cause friction on the skin. This causes bruises, irritation, scars and pain on the delicate skin of the face.

A recent study also brought to light the fact that medical masks are causing inflammation. Some even cause pressure ulcers that can lead to pain and infection.

Face Mask Skin Irritation

Air, Water, food and now masks have become essential for survival. But wearing face masks for extended periods comes with its own risks. From skin irritation to breathing issues, masks are a menace.

The occlusive nature of the mask traps breathing. It causes friction that leads to pressure damage on the nose and cheeks. Long-time use of masks tears the skin and this can lead to potential infection.

Adapting to the new normal

The only way to live through the pandemic is by adapting to the new normal, as soon as possible. 

But the ‘new normal’ does not have to be bad.

It just needs a little more careful than before and the masks won’t be a menace anymore.

Caring for the skin reduces the chances of wear and tear of the skin. 

Things you need to know about the masks

1. Pick a breathable mask made of natural soft cotton. 
2. Bid bye to make-up for a while. Make-up just makes it more difficult for your skin to breathe.
3. Avoid strong cleansers, scrubs, and face packs. Avoid chemical-laden cosmetics.
4. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser after removing your mask.
5. Apply Shatadhauta Ghrita over your face and cover the irritated portion of your skin.

Ayurvedic Doctor Recommends Shatadhauta Ghrita 

While using the mask it is very crucial to choose a natural moisturizer mild on the skin but strong enough to protect it. And Ayurveda recommends Shatadhauta Grihta for the job!

Shatadhauta Grihta is an ayurvedic formulation made by washing purified ghee one hundred times with water. It heals the damaged skin by penetrating all the seven layers of tissue. It provides instant relief from burning sensation and wounds. 

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How it helps?

• Aids in rebuilding dermal tissue and supports the healing of the skin.
• It removes scars, spots and dark circles from the skin.
• Its anti-inflammation property helps in soothing the pain.
• Its moisturizing property help in tackling dryness of the skin.
• This ghrita  is used as a natural healer in a number of Ayurvedic therapies.

Face Mask Skin Irritation – Dealing with the new ordeals!

• Take a small dab of the Shatadhauta ghrita using your fingers.
• Apply the ghrita on the affected area and rub gently in a circular motion.
• Leave it to get soaked for 45 minutes.

Face Mask Skin Irritation – Not a problem!

Coronavirus is a threat to all of us. We do not know much about the virus or about the cure at this point in time. Precautions are all we have as of now. So, whether we like it or not, we have to follow these until the vaccine or definite cure arrives. 

And of the long list of things to do for preventing the spread of COVID-19, wearing masks is a big thing. But with a little care and caution, the new normal can be adapted well. For all those reaching out to me asking for a solution to their skin irritation – Shatadhauta ghrita  is what I recommend.

Safe. Effective. Zero Side effects.

So, have you ordered your safety kit?